Passing a School Bus

As summer winds down, it is time for children all over the Las Vegas Valley to return to school. It is important to take a minute from all the school supply shopping trips, school orientations, and teacher meet and greet sessions to think about driver safety.

NRS §484B.353 tells us when we can – and when we cannot – pass a school bus that is displaying flashing red lights while loading or unloading passengers. Drivers who approach a bus that is displaying flashing red lights must stop and wait for the flashing red lights to stop before driving past the bus. There are two exceptions to this rule. First, drivers who approach a bus that is displaying flashing red lights on the other side of a divided highway need not stop. Second, drivers who approach a bus that is displaying flashing red lights need not stop when the traffic in the area is controlled by a traffic officer.

This law was meant to be followed, as evidenced by the fact that it carries some harsh consequences. A first offense is punishable by a fine of at least $250 and as much as $500. A second offense within one year of the first offense is punishable by a fine of at least $250 and as much as $500 plus a mandatory six month suspension of the operator’s driver license. A third or any subsequent offense within two years of the most recent offense is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 plus a mandatory one year suspension of the operator’s driver license.

Driving is a big responsibility. Please use caution and be on the lookout for children wherever you drive. Doing so could help keep your money and your driver license in your wallet.

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